My mother-in-law has an HP 367C desktop that when she press the power button to turn on, the light comes on, but the computer does not boot, no sounds are heard, no clicking, nothing, and then the light goes off. Does it look like the hard drive died?

Hello mccabe33411

It does sound as though the power supply inside the computer might have failed. This is a device that takes the house A/C power and converts it to D/C power (like power from a battery) and makes all the special voltages, etc. that the various parts inside the computer need.

Let's make sure there isn't an external cause for the problem 1st.

(A) Have her unplug the computer and plug in a lamp or similar into the same A/C outlet that the computer was plugged into. Ask her if the lamp turns on OK.

If it does, then we know that the source for power to the computer is working. (We suspect that anyway because a light comes on then off again at the computer when she depresses the power button. These are just routine checks for this kind of problem. So, please, bear w/ me.)

(B) Next, ask her to check the power cord at the back of the computer. While the power cord is unplugged from the A/C outlet, ask her to unplug the other end of the cord (that is at the back of the computer), then plug it back in nice and snug.

(C) Now, plug the other end of the cord back into the A/C outlet. At this point, we know that we have a working source of power and that the computer's power cord is "seated" (plugged in) properly on both ends.

(D) Ask her to try turning on the computer again. I don't think it will turn on but we could get lucky. :)

(E) HERE is HP's listing for this computer.

(F) HERE is HP's FAQ (frequently asked questions) listing for startup problems w/ this computer. Follow the steps outlined. You will likely end up in Step-2 and be referred to THIS listing for trouble-shooting power supply-related issues.

(G) If you do end up in "Trouble-shooting Power Supply Issues", carefully follow the instructions there for diagnosing the problem. I suspect it's going to lead you to a diagnosis of a failed power supply.

(H) If the diagnosis does end up being a failed power supply, then you have two options.
(1) Purchase and install a new power supply (this is contingent upon availabilty)
(2) Replace the computer
(3) If (1) is not an option and you know some one capable of doing this, have the power supply repaired. (DON'T try this yourself as it can be DANGEROUS if done improperly.)


Please, post back w/ your results, ANY questions, comments, observations at all. We'll continue to work w/ you on this issue until we have it pinned down.

Thank you
BJ @:)

Hello,
This can either be the power supply or the motherboard. Get the power supply tested and replace it if necessary.

If this is not the problem, then get back to me.

Thanks,
Lolita